Legal System

JudiciaryThere are six components to the Moroccan judicial system. The majority of legal matters fall within the jurisdiction of Regional Tribunals, which decide cases of personal property damages. Su

JudiciaryThere are six components to the Moroccan judicial system. The majority of legal matters fall within the jurisdiction of Regional Tribunals, which decide cases of personal property damages. Such judgments, excluding minor offenses punishable by a small fine, may be appealed to the Court of Appeals. The Court of Appeals also has a separate civil and criminal division. Despite previous announcements, the new Commerce Law, passed on May 18, 1996, did not establish special commercial courts. Courts of First Instance adjudicate crimes punishable by up to five years imprisonment and civil, personal status, or commercial cases. Monetary judgments of small amounts are not subject to appeal.

The decisions of all courts and tribunals may be reviewed by the Supreme Court. There is also the High Court of Justice that has jurisdiction over criminal and felonious matters allegedly committed by government officials. In addition, there are specialized Labor Tribunals which settle disputes by means of conciliation